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Aug 2013

Legends of Chicago Hip-Hop Reunion

Legendary rappers come together for the first time ...By Najja Parker

When you think of Chicago rappers, Kanye, Common and Lupe probably come to mind. But what do you know about the Chi-Town hip-hop legends? De’Andre Hawthorne and D. Coney, best known as Blaq Ice and Jay the Magnificent One, put their heads together to organize the first-ever Legends of Chicago Hip-Hop Reunion.

The organiers called on break dancers, graffiti artists, turntablists, sound engineers and, of course, rappers from over 30 years to celebrate in Hayes Park. The unification was created not only to honor those who’ve paved the way, but also to “re-capture the fertile imagination of the sometimes violent nature of Chicago youth.”

Hawthorne and Conley hope to encourage reunions in cities across the nation. In the meantime, check out how the legends celebrated in Chicago.

Covering the Original Legends of Chicago Hip Hop was an excellent idea, and I think that these guys can make a big impact on the hearts and minds of the youth, and steer them back on the path of "Consciousness". Rap music has taken a turn for the worst with mainstream hip hop, so "Resurrecting" Chicago's Finest Lyricist, will give the "Youth" the "Balance" that is needed.

If there's any Hip Hop artist that can remove some of the stench that "Mainstream Rappers" has given Hip Hop, I strongly believe that these guys can get it done, "IF" they are up for the task that awaits them.

Big props to JET MAGAZINE for this coverage. I hope there is more to come.

I am delighted and proud to see Ebony/Jet cover something so powerful and positive what I call " Doing something Good in the Hood" The legends coming together to create a positive movement to encourage and empower our youth is commendable and greatly needed. God bless you all.

It is so amazing to see this article. For once Chicago being envisioned with true positivity. It really was a blessing to see all the guys that I use to battle 3o years ago and those that I've watch develop into amazing artists of today. Ebony/Jet, I have to tip my hat to you. Just when all other seems to give up on Chicago….You help us sine that positive light that this city needs. Thank You.

Truly.for the first time showing Chicago Hip hop birth. The ones who open Doors for todays Chicago hip hop..from all 4 corners of the city north,South east & west! …hopefuly buy the 3rd. Annual Reunion in 2015 it could be held at Chicago terror Done …the historical sight of all Chicago major battles ..it was great seeing the true Chicago legends,,, History!!! Never know maybe a award show for Chicago artist…but It was Great!…..wouldn't miss it for the world!

JET is the No. 1 African-American newsweekly and has more than 7 million readers. Its properties, JET magazine and JETmag.com, continue the legacy of serving authoritative, credible and entertaining information to the Black community. The publication has been a staple in the homes and businesses of Black Americans since 1951, bringing life to its popular catchphrase: If it wasn't in JET, it didn't happen.

JET magazine, which was founded in November 1951 by the late entrepreneur John H. Johnson, is a division of Johnson Publishing Company, Inc. Linda Johnson Rice is Chairman and Desirèe Rogers is Chief Executive Officer.